STEVE Appleby has resigned as boss of Wisbech Town Football Club after three and a half years in the hotseat.
His assistant manager Chris Dear has also left the club.
Former player Darren Jimson and senior players Paul Cousins and Scott Johnson will take charge of the Fenmen’s trip to Huntingdon Town tomorrow.
The club hopes to announce Appleby’s replacement before their home game with Harborough Town next Saturday.
Appleby has led the Fenmen to three top four league finishes and two Red Insure Cup wins since his appointment in February 2010.
But he was left disheartened after the club rejected the chance of promotion to step four football after Wisbech finished second in the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division last season.
He said: “It was an extremely difficult decision for me as I’ve found it an honour to manage the club and have enjoyed some successful times in my three and a half years here.
“The decision is based purely on me losing the hunger and motivation after the club declined to take promotion at the end of last season.
“I feel that perhaps during the summer I allowed my heart to rule my head and although some people may question the timing of my decision, it’s in no way related to the relatively poor start which the team has made to this season.
“I have tried to be as loyal as I can but unfortunately if I don’t feel that I’m doing my job properly then it’s time to call it a day. As they say, all good things must come to an end.”
Appleby’s last game in charge was a 1-1 draw at Kempston Rovers in the United Counties League on Saturday.
Wisbech lost Callum Reed to a straight red card after a studs-up challenge in the 47th minute but Matt Lunn’s spectacular solo effort gave them a share of the spoils.
The 46-year-old paid tribute to the club and its passionate supporters.
He said: “I would like to wish everybody well and place on record my thanks to the people who have helped me during my time with the club: Barry Carter, Snips and the Directors, Chris Dear, Daz Jimson, Spaff Senior, Chas Thompson, Colin Gant, Spenny and all the backroom staff.
“My abiding memory will always be of the amazing supporters and fantastic backing that they always gave me.
“I will never forget the unbelievable support we received at the two cup finals.”
Appleby says he plans to step away from management for a while.
He said: “I’ve been involved in non league football since I was 16.
“I’m now 46 so that’s 30 years without a break, travelling the country, doing pre-seasons then full seasons.
“It’s time to have break, but if something comes up I will not rule it in or out.”
Vice chairman Dave Parsons says he and chairman Barry Carter are sad to see Appleby and Dear go.
He said: “Mr Carter and myself are vey disappointed that him and Chris (Dear) are going but we understand their reasons.
“Steve (Appleby) is a very honest man and has been honest with us at all times.
“He has always put the club first and been professional. He was a pleasure to work with.
“We have had numerous applications to replace him and Steve (Appleby) has made a couple of recommendations so we will be starting interviews soon and hope to have someone in place by next weekend.”
Interested parties should send their football CV to chairman Barry Carter at carter.188@btinternet.com or call 07825 516544 as soon as possible.
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